Spring has sprung, the sun is shining, and it’s time to retire those clunky boots for the season. Want to give your style an upgrade with minimal effort? These shoe trends, from flats with a twist to heels that make a point, will do just that, and you can shop for them here in Toronto.
1. Minimalist flats
For those who put comfort first and style second, you’re in luck — these ultra-comfy shoes slip on like a glove and are as flat as the name implies. Ballet flats have made a major comeback in the past year, and as each seasonal trend cycle passes, the love for these elegant shoes seem to only grow stronger. This year, the minimalist version of ballet flats have risen to the top in terms of popularity.  Vogue previously crowned the non-shoe shoe (a category which these flats are certainly a part of) one of the top shoe trends of the year, and for good reason: super simple footwear goes with everything, and in their unobtrusiveness, they clearly also become the star of the show. Opt for a Mary Jane silhouette for extra style points — there’s something about that small addition to the classic flat that just works no matter the outfit or occasion. Try these in your colourway of choice from Maguire Shoes, or these slight square-toed Mary Jane flats from Frock.Â
2. Pointed slingbacks
They’re elegant, they’re sultry, they’re chic — the slingback heel is a classic. Add a pointed toe to that and you’ve got a timeless yet trendy shoe that can play well with maxi skirts, ’90s jeans and everything in between. These shoes are right in line with recent ’90s minimalism and sirencore trends, and they offer a refreshing contrast to the aforementioned ballet flat if you lean more sultry than soft. As with all trends, take what works for you and leave what doesn’t — if it’s the slingback part that appeals to you most, we say go full steam ahead, pointy or not. And if the pointed toe is calling to you, you can find them in flat, stiletto, wedge and mule form too. TNT offers a few versions of this shoe if you’re comfortable with a higher price point, including these buckle-accented ones and this interesting loafer-inspired pair.Â
Where to buy: TNT, 394 Eglinton Ave. W.
3. Colourful kicks
Sneakers are always in style, but the sneaker of the season seems to constantly change. This time, it’s slim, sports-style ones, ideally in a bold colour — and there’s plenty to choose from. Of course, you’ve seen the Adidas Sambas (particularly favoured in yellow and red colourways, if fashion influencers are any indication), and they seem to have plenty of staying power. But in 2024, many sneaker brands have come out with ultra-bright slim sneakers to rival Adidas, so there’s no shortage of styles to fall in love with. Any sneaker shop will have what you’re looking for — we recommend Pumas or Onitsuka Tigers if you want to step outside the Sambas world.Â
4. Micro heels
So-tiny-you-might-miss-them heels were all over the runway this season, spotted on boots, mules, slingbacks and more. These kitten heels are the antithesis to platforms, and they’re pretty practical as far as heels go. While many of us might associate kitten heels with the shoes your mom would buy for you as a tween for formal occasions as a stepping stone to real heels, their recent resurgence have brought on a new reputation that’s ultra-chic and high fashion. Reformation, now located in Yorkville, has plenty of kitten heel varieties, including these satin mules, these red pumps and these slingbacks (double trend bang for your buck!).Â
5. Mesh accents
We saw sheer dresses, sheer skirts, sheer blouses, now get ready for… sheer shoes? Mesh is the super-breathable new accessories trend for spring, particularly in the form of fishnet ballet flats. Also a member of the no-shoe shoe club, if you’re preparing for the hot summer weather and want a barely-there shoe, mesh will do it. Mesh footwear began as a runway-exclusive trend but, like many things, it has finally made its way to the shops for us non-models to enjoy. This trend is a simple way to add some punchiness to your wardrobe with very low effort. Try these Heel Boy mesh Mary Jane flats in a spring-friendly purple colour, or these in black or white from Maguire Shoes.Â
